Vivi's Orchid Corner

September 2006 - Volume 11, Issue 9

Vanda John Germaske

Vanda John Germaske

Dear Orchid Friends:

A good thing happened! After years of "hanging on", one of my special vandas made a comeback AND bloomed. This orchid is Vanda John Germaske.

My treasured orchid brings fond memories of a special orchidist: Vanda John Germaske. We met this gentleman in 1998 at the South Florida Orchid Show. He delighted in conversing with everyone; hobbyists, newcomers, and renowned growers and unselfishly imparted information. He grew beautiful orchids for famous growers.

I purchased Vanda John Germaske in 1997. This beauty bloomed for a few years then misfortune fell. I left it out in full summer sun and scorched it. SCORCHED IT. I tried nurturing it back to health for years: water, extra shade, fertilizer, moved it to different locations, with little luck. I knew Vandas may not bloom every year successively and I waited patiently. My husband adopted my failure and moved it to yet another location. Over the past several years it did nothing - then suddenly after Hurricane Jeanne and Francis it actually started to show signs of life and develop new roots. Much to my surprise and dismay, V. John Germaske finally produced a flower spike this summer. This was cause for celebration.

The parentage for V. John Germaske is: V. sanderiana x V. Dona Rome Sanchez. This is a large substantial plant (2.5 - 3 ft. tall). The strap shaped leaves are approximately 12-15 inches.

Vanda John Germaske is a warm-loving orchid, which means it is not fond of temperatures below 50-60F and tolerates humid, balmy conditions. Vandas flourish in bright light (WARNING: they do not tolerate full sun!). Pool enclosures, patios and trees with adequate coverage are good growing choices.Water well and frequently.

V. John Germaske is truly a hardy variety. This fighter certainly made a comeback despite my wariness. Vanda John Germaske coming into bloom brought back memories of the orchidist, Mr. John Germaske. I am glad I am able to share this orchid flower with you.

Until next time,

Vivi